Special Needs for Students with Cystic Fibrosis
Guidance and Tips for Teachers of Children with CF
Cystic Fibrosis is an inherited chronic disorder of the mucus and sweat glands that primarily interferes with lung and digestive function. The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation estimates that nearly 70,000 children worldwide have the disorder. Before the advancement of medical treatment for CF, affected children rarely survived past the age of six. Now it is possible to live past forty.
Children with CF are therefore likely to attend school. The disorder does not affect a child’s intellect or ability to learn, but will be apparent in other ways such as physically. Due to therapeutic requirements and potential hospitalization there will also be periods of missed class time.
Varying Severity of Cystic Fibrosis
Teachers should be aware that there are varying degrees of severity in CF children. Some may need more therapy, medication, and monitoring than others. Symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing, and digestive issues can also fluctuate from day to day. Be cognizant of what the student will require.
Find out more by speaking to parents. Learn about the child’s therapy routine. Will he need therapy during school hours? Will he require strict diet adherence that needs to be watched or free access to water and bathroom facilities? How often will he need hospitalization and when? Usually clinic visits and hospitalization are prearranged and can be planned for.
Breathing Needs and Coughing
Cystic Fibrosis causes a mucus buildup in the airways to the lungs. When this happens, a child will cough and become short of breath. To alleviate the blockage, a caregiver will perform chest therapy several times daily. This involves tapping on the chest and the resulting vibration clears the airways, momentarily allowing the child to breathe better. Inhalants may also be indicated.
Children with CF will cough frequently and should be allowed to leave the classroom if necessary. Coughing should not be discouraged or pointed out by the teacher. Tissues and water should be readily handy. Physical education requirements may also need to be lessened to accommodate the CF student.
Medications Required for Digestion
A child with Cystic Fibrosis will require pancreatic enzyme medication to digest food properly. These medications need to be allowed in school and must be taken immediately before eating. If the student is skipping or forgetting the medication, this needs to be reported to the parents.
Infectious Diseases and CF
Infectious diseases such as bronchitis, pneumonia, and flu can be devastating to a child with CF. Minimizing these harmful germs in the classroom should be a priority for teachers. Keep antibacterial wipes handy at all times and make sure students wash their hands before meals and after bathroom visits. In particular, the affected student should be diligent with washing hands and may need to be reminded to do so, especially before eating or taking medications.
Emotional Needs of a Child with CF
When a child needs hospitalization, encourage classmates to write or draw pictures for him. Prepare recordings or a folder of class material to the child if he misses school. If the student approves, allow him to present information about Cystic Fibrosis to the class. Parents and even medical personnel can also be invited to the presentation.
Students with CF need to be accepted just as much as other children. Make sure that he feels welcomed by all. Allow him to showcase his strengths in both academics and personality. When a teacher provides positive guidance and the necessary accommodations, it is possible for a child with Cystic Fibrosis to have a rewarding learning experience that will prepare him for life’s many opportunities.
To learn more about CF, read Cystic Fibrosis Overview.
Breathing Issues Occur in School for Kids with CF
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